Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog were found dead in their New Mexico home, authorities confirmed Thursday. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office stated that no foul play is suspected, but an investigation is ongoing. Deputies discovered the couple during a welfare check on Wednesday afternoon.
Hackman, 95, was one of Hollywood’s most respected actors, known for his versatility in portraying heroes, villains, and antiheroes. His illustrious career spanned decades, earning him five Academy Award nominations and two wins—for The French Connection (1972) and Unforgiven (1992). His death comes just days before this year’s Oscars ceremony.
The actor, who retired in the early 2000s, spent his later years in Santa Fe, where he and Arakawa, a classically trained pianist, settled after meeting in the 1980s. Hackman largely stayed out of the public eye, dedicating time to writing novels and supporting local arts organizations.
Hackman is survived by three children from a previous marriage. Further details on the couple’s deaths are pending the ongoing investigation.
